Mary Christine Avery (Grachek)

Mary Avery, 76, of Beaverton passed away on Friday, March 24, 2023, at Schnepp's Senior Care and Rehab Center in St. Louis.  Mary was born on August 19, 1946, in Alma, daughter of the late Joseph and Ruth (Slaski) Grachek.  She graduated from Midland High School with the class of 1964.  After graduation she married James Avery on October 17, 1964.  They were blessed with four children, Kathy, Karen, Amy, and Ronald.  While the children were in school Mary cleaned houses, became a girl scout leader, sold Avon and Tupperware. When the children were grown, she continued her work with the Alma Public Schools for 23 years as a ParaPro and in the elementary school cafeteria.  Mary enjoyed camping, crafts, and painting.  She cherished her time with her family and looked forward to her monthly gatherings with her children and grandchildren. She will be missed by so many.  Mary is survived by her husband, James; children, Kathy Avery of Ithaca, Karen (Dan) Manley of Elm Hall, Amy (David) Dancer of Elwell and Ronald (Cori) Avery of Harrison; grandchildren, Thomas (Ashley) Anderson, Sarah Dancer, Reese Avery, Kara Anderson, Elli (Ron) Decker, Kaylee Brillhart; great grandchildren, Cami, Serenity, Ember and Coheed; siblings, Ed (Julie) Grachek, and Chris (Bill) Grachek; brother in laws, Dale (Lori) Johnson Sr., Junior Wise, David (Judy) Avery, Richard (Kathy) Avery and Paul (Karen) Avery; sister in laws, Tracy Bectel, Rose Griggs and Betty (Dan) Griggs; aunt, Ann Nelson; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by both parents; in laws, Albert (Mildred) Avery, sisters, LaDonna Grachek; JoAne Johnson, Donna (Leeroy) Czarnecki, brother, Joe Grachek; sister-in-laws, Alberta Wise, Sharon (Jim) Husted, Violet (Erwin and Otto) Holloway, and Leila (Ken) Walker; brother-in-law, Dick Griggs.   A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 15, 2023, at 11:30am at the East Superior Christian Church in Alma (605 E Superior St.) with Dale Johnson Jr. officiating.  The family request any floral arrangements or plants be sent to the family of Mary Avery, 7426 Bliss Rd., Elwell, Mi. 48832. To sign the online guest book or leave a condolence for the family please visit www.CharlesRLux.com.